A kind-hearted seven-year-old from Worcester has donated his hair to charity after growing it for four years and having it chopped in a festive fundraiser at a popular garden centre.

Leo was described as "a shining example of compassion and generosity" by St Peters Garden Centre, based in Brockhill Village.

The inspirational boy wanted to grow his hair as long as possible to donate it to The Little Princess Trust. The idea came after Leo couldn't get to a hairdresser during lockdown.

Each wig costs around £550 to make, and they usually make wigs consisting of several different people’s hair.

Leo, his mum, Claire and dog, Luna visited St Peters Garden Centre earlier this month with a special request.

A spokesperson said: "When Leo first envisioned cutting his hair for charity, he had one wish — to have Santa Claus present who he met at St Peters Garden Centre last December.

"The news of Leo's wish reached the ears of Santa Claus who was deeply moved by the young boy's compassion.

"On Saturday, December 2 2023, Leo and Santa Claus met at St Peters Garden Centre for the big haircut. Leo is trying to raise as much money as he can for this brilliant cause, and would be so grateful for any donation.

"We’re very excited to host Leo and Santa Claus in December for The Big Haircut, and we’re really grateful to Leo and mum Claire for approaching us."

The Little Princess Charity is an organisation dedicated to providing real hair wigs to children suffering from hair loss due to cancer treatment, alopecia, or other medical conditions.

These wigs help restore the self-esteem and confidence of the children, allowing them to feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin.

To donate to Leo's fundraiser on JustGiving, visit: http://tinyurl.com/mtnwpbh7